OPDS is able to advise students on the best combinations of subjects to take for their future career, especially once a Study Plan has been received from the student. Assistance can be given to formulate or revise a Study Plan on request from the student. Once the student is registered in a school we will continuously work with academic staff on this as they have more experience and can compare student's strengths and weaknesses. Nevertheless, if a student wishes to discuss the subjects recommended by the institution with OPDS, we are always on hand to listen and enter into discussion with the academic staff.
Reports are produced by many schools every half term and at term end. These highlight the overall performance of the student, and stress particular strengths and weaknesses.
We undertake to discuss those areas of weakness with the student in a firm and encouraging manner so they realise the importance of putting in extra effort or seeking additional support in order to improve their performance.
Reports are translated into Mandarin and forwarded to parents so they can be kept fully informed of the student's performance at all times. This service is usually completed within 14 days of the receipt of each report.
OPDS highly encourages students to follow the pathway that enables them to reach their goal and careers in which they are happy and where their potential can continue to be developed These maybe in particular academic subjects or in a student's interest, for example, music art or design. We undertake to discuss the position with staff at the institution and feed back recommendations to the parents, who can then discuss the career aspirations with the student and OPDS in readiness for a possible change of course.
We will work closely with students who have difficulty in certain areas. This will include liaising with the school and arranging additional support where necessary. When appropriate, outside agencies may be used to provide support: for example arranging extra lessons during holiday time.